November

Nov 21 @ 7 PM FREE

Susan Orlean is hailed as a “national treasure” by The Washington Post and the acclaimed bestselling author of Rin Tin Tin and The Orchid Thief. Orlean reopens the unsolved mystery of the most catastrophic library fire in American history, and delivers a dazzling love letter to a beloved institution — our libraries. This event includes an onstage interview hosted by Shelley Youngblut, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. This event is free admission — a gift from Simon & Schuster Canada, Wordfest and the Calgary Public Library in celebration of the opening of the New Central Library.
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Nov 28 @ 7 PM $5

Come prepared to delve into Sheila Heti's new novel Motherhood, a courageous, keenly felt, and starkly original exploration that will surely spark lively conversations about womanhood, parenthood, and about how―and for whom―to live. This event is hosted by blogger and book reviewer Anne Logan of ivereadthis.com, and is part of Wordfest's monthly book club series on the top floor of Memorial Park Library.
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December

Dec 04 @ 7 PM $20 - $25

Your chance to hear from the esteemed former Governor General and author of the bestsellers The Idea of Canada and Ingenious. Don't miss this timely conversation about restoring personal, community and national trust. Hosted by David Gray of the CBC Calgary Eyeopener, this event includes an on-stage interview, audience Q&A, followed by a book signing.
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January

Jan 23 @ 7 PM $10

Looking for the chance to chat about what you’ve read (or haven’t read yet) with an equally engaged group of book lovers? Sign up for Calgary’s most entertaining and friendly book club, hosted by Anne Logan.
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February

Feb 12 @ 7 PM $10

Finally, a “book” club for people who don’t only read books – and are obsessed with episodic television. We know you’re dying to talk about your favourite on-demand series, so we’ve created a monthly opportunity to geek out with your fellow small-screen aficionados. First up is Stranger Things, a sci-fi horror series released on Netflix. Hosted by Shelley Youngblut, Wordfest's CEO & Creative Ringleader. Cash bar available.
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Feb 20 @ 7 PM $10

Looking for the chance to chat about what you’ve read (or haven’t read yet) with an equally engaged group of book lovers? Sign up for Calgary’s most entertaining and friendly book club, hosted by Anne Logan.
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March

Mar 12 @ 7 PM $10

Finally, a “book” club for people who don’t only read books – and are obsessed with episodic television. We know you’re dying to talk about your favourite on-demand series, so we’ve created a monthly opportunity to geek out with your fellow small-screen aficionados. Next up is The Handmaid’s Tale (a month ahead of the release of the third season). Hosted by Shelley Youngblut, Wordfest's CEO & Creative Ringleader. Cash bar available.
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Youth & School Programming

Become a Wordy Do-Gooder

A huge thank you to all of our supporters! Wordfest relies on government funding, sponsorships from corporations and foundations, volunteer support and charitable donations from individuals like you to ensure that we are able to continue our 23-year history of sparking live experiences for readers and writers. We invite you to consider donating to Wordfest this season as we plan for another year of igniting ideas and building community – one inspiring story at a time.